This is my last column as CEO of Plymouth Argyle FC as I’m departing from Home Park for a new challenge on May 31.

Argyle is a fantastic club and it’s going to be a massive wrench to leave.

I’ve had a great time here in Plymouth and I’ve made a lot of friends with whom I’ll be looking to maintain contact.

When I joined the Club in July 2013 relegation to the Conference League had just been narrowly averted, heavy financial losses were being sustained with debts, football creditor and otherwise, a considerable burden. It was a difficult time.

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Ryan Edwards (centre) pictured with Argyle chief executive Martyn Starnes (left) and club operations manager Jon Back at the game against Shrewsbury (Image: Dave Rowntree/PPAUK)

I’m pleased to say that over the last five years the Club’s performance both on and off the pitch has radically improved and a stable environment has been established from which to work.

Derek and his coaching staff have done a marvellous job on the playing side consistently overachieving on the resources available.

It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Derek who has embraced the Club in its widest sense which I think has been extremely valuable and I wish him every success in his future career.

Plymouth Argyle Chief Executive Martyn Starnes

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff, past and present, at Argyle and in the Community Trust for their enduring commitment and hard work without which the Club would not have made such considerable progress.

And finally, I’ll be forever grateful to all the fans for their unerring support and for making me feel so welcome at Home Park.

My best wishes are extended to everyone associated with Argyle. I hope the Club will continue to develop and prosper in 2018/19.